What's happened
Thousands of Afghan refugees, including Rahmani, are struggling after losing financial assistance due to funding cuts from the Trump administration. With halted relocation services and rising living costs, many families are at risk of eviction and homelessness, highlighting the challenges faced by those fleeing persecution.
What's behind the headline?
Key Issues Facing Afghan Refugees
- Funding Cuts: The cessation of federal funding has left many refugees without necessary support, leading to financial instability.
- Eviction Risks: With rising rents and halted assistance, many families are receiving eviction notices, pushing them towards homelessness.
- Strain on Resettlement Agencies: Organizations like Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area are struggling to provide services due to financial constraints, resulting in layoffs and reduced support for clients.
- Mental Health Impact: The stress of financial insecurity is taking a toll on the mental health of refugees, as seen in Rahmani's case, where anxiety has led to medical intervention.
Future Implications
The ongoing situation raises concerns about the long-term viability of refugee resettlement programs in the U.S. If funding is not restored, the consequences could be dire for many families who sought safety and stability in America.
What the papers say
According to AP News, Rahmani, an Afghan refugee, has faced significant challenges since arriving in the U.S. in November 2024. He lost financial assistance when the Trump administration cut funding for the federal refugee program in January 2025. The article highlights that his family’s monthly expenses have skyrocketed to nearly $1,850, a stark contrast to their previous living conditions in Kabul.
The New Arab emphasizes the plight of resettlement agencies like Lutheran Social Services of the National Capital Area, which are struggling to provide support due to a lack of federal reimbursements. The agency has laid off staff and is unable to meet the needs of its clients, many of whom are Afghan allies at risk of eviction. Krish O'Mara Vignarajah, president of Global Refuge, stated, "We’re seeing the de facto wholesale destruction of a longstanding bipartisan program that saved millions of lives."
The Independent echoes these sentiments, noting that at least 42 households under LSSNCA's care have received eviction notices, putting nearly 170 people at risk of homelessness. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the fact that many refugees are still within their first 90 days in the U.S., a critical period for receiving assistance.
How we got here
The Trump administration cut off funding for the federal refugee program in January 2025, impacting thousands of newly arrived refugees. This decision disrupted essential services that were meant to support their transition to life in the U.S.
Go deeper
- What support is available for Afghan refugees now?
- How are resettlement agencies coping with funding cuts?
- What are the long-term implications for refugee programs?
Common question
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What Financial Challenges Are Afghan Refugees Facing in 2025?
Afghan refugees are currently navigating a complex landscape of financial instability due to recent policy changes and rising living costs. With cuts to federal assistance programs, many families are at risk of eviction and homelessness. This page explores the pressing questions surrounding their challenges and the support available to them.
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